Thursday, December 14, 2017

How about an AS/RS system?

Did you know:
AS/RS systems are designed for automated storage and retrieval of parts and items in manufacturing, distribution, retail, wholesale and institutions.[3] They first originated in the 1960s, initially focusing on heavy pallet loads but with the evolution of the technology the handled loads have become smaller.[4] The systems operate under computerized control, maintaining an inventory of stored items. Retrieval of items is accomplished by specifying the item type and quantity to be retrieved. The computer determines where in the storage area the item can be retrieved from and schedules the retrieval. It directs the proper automated storage and retrieval machine (SRM) to the location where the item is stored and directs the machine to deposit the item at a location where it is to be picked up. A system of conveyors and or automated guided vehicles is sometimes part of the AS/RS system. These take loads into and out of the storage area and move them to the manufacturing floor or loading docks. To store items, the pallet or tray is placed at an input station for the system, the information for inventory is entered into a computer terminal and the AS/RS system moves the load to the storage area, determines a suitable location for the item, and stores the load. As items are stored into or retrieved from the racks, the computer updates its inventory accordingly.
The benefits of an AS/RS system include reduced labor for transporting items into and out of inventory, reduced inventory levels, more accurate tracking of inventory, and space savings. Items are often stored more densely than in systems where items are stored and retrieved manually.[5]
Within the storage, items can be placed on trays or hang from bars, which are attached to chains/drives in order to move up and down. The equipment required for an AS/RS include a storage & retrieval machine (SRM) that is used for rapid storage and retrieval of material. SRMs are used to move loads vertically or horizontally, and can also move laterally to place objects in the correct storage location.[6]
The trend towards Just In Time production often requires sub-pallet level availability of production inputs, and AS/RS is a much faster way of organizing the storage of smaller items next to production lines.

Rather than selecting a manufacturer who is only going to recommend the best solution that “they” can provide you with, why not go to a systems integrator with experience in all types of AS/RS who has access to many of the best products on the market and all types of AS/RS? This is just one of the advantages that you will benefit from when choosing Kuecker Logistics Group to assist you in the implementation of an automated storage and retrieval system that is custom designed to meet all of your specific and unique requirements.
More to come soon!


Monday, December 11, 2017

Palletizers

A bit about palletizers:

palletizer or palletiser is a machine which provides automatic means for stacking cases of goods or products onto a pallet.
Manually placing boxes on pallets can be time consuming and expensive; it can also put unusual stress on workers.[1] The first mechanized palletizer was designed, built, and installed in 1948 by a company formerly known as Lamson Corp. Lamson is currently owned by ARPAC (.com) who provides both robotic and mechanical palletizers with complete end of line packaging equipment systems.
There are specific types of palletizers including the row-forming which were introduced in the early 1950s. In row-forming palletizing applications loads are arranged on a row forming area and then moved onto a different area where layer forming takes place. This process repeats until a full layer of goods and products are configured to be placed on a pallet.
The in-line palletizer was developed in the 1970s when higher speeds were needed for palletizing. This palletizer type utilizes a continuous motion flow divider that guides the goods into the desired area on the layer forming platform.
Robotic palletizers were introduced in the early 1980s and have an end of arm tool (end effector) to grab the product from a conveyor or layer table and position it onto a pallet.[2] Both conventional and robotic palletizers can receive product at a high elevation (typically between 84” - 2.13m to 124” - 3.15m) or low “floor level” elevation (typically at 30” - 0.76m to 36” - 0.91m).
At Kuecker Logistics Group, we can provide your company with the right palletizing equipment and palletizing solutions that meets the specific requirements of your project. Whether you are in need of one of the fastest and most durable models in the industry or a unique robotic application, we have the right palletizing system for your operations.
Our services don’t have to stop there, though. As an expert integrator of palletizing equipment, conveyor systems, AS/RS and multiple material handling solutions, many times the palletizer is simply one facet of the entire project scope that we provide. Our team analyzes your businesses needs and creates a palletizing solution that can make it run more smoothly.

More to come soon!

Thursday, December 7, 2017

Warehouse Automation Solutions to Streamline Distribution Center Operations


Achieve Optimal Operations With Warehouse Automation

Streamline your processes with warehouse automation from KLG. Our team aims to make your operation as efficient as possible and will do everything we can to help you expand your business by providing warehouse automation and distribution systems.
From handling greater amounts of products to allowing for quicker turnaround times, warehouse automation has been assisting the biggest names in a variety of industries. Consider making your business smarter with warehouse automation from KLG.
Learn more about our custom warehouse automation systems by reading more below or calling (816) 348-3100 today.

Warehouse Automation Solutions

We offer comprehensive warehouse automation solutions for your distribution centers. Here are some of the services we provide:

Put-to-Light

With put-to-light warehouse automation, operators can easily replenish stock thanks to light displays that provide allocation instruction and packing quantities. Operators pick more efficiently thanks to this warehouse automation system.

Omni-Channel Distribution Systems

The convergence of mobile technology, e-commerce websites, and wireless networks have enabled consumers to make purchases almost anywhere -- and they expect prompt delivery. Our warehouse automation solutions include omni channel distribution strategies, including inventory and distributed order management systems.

Supply Chain Automation

Still relying on outdated manual entry, invoicing, printing, processing, mailing, order status updating, and more? Not only does this waste paper, it also takes time. Pair your warehouse automation system with supply chain automation to streamline your processes.

Goods to Man

Our warehouse automation solutions include goods-to-man (also called goods-to-person) systems designed to cut labor costs and cycle times, plus increase order accuracy and employee productivity. Integrate these systems with our other warehouse automation, like put-to-light and pick-to-light systems, to further optimize distribution systems.

Distribution Center Design

Our warehouse automation services include distribution center design. We’ll tour your current facilities and discuss strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in order to design a distribution plan that meets your needs and corrects any inefficiencies. Then, our warehouse automation team can provide integration, installation, training, and more.

Warehouse Control Software

Without good control software, warehouse automation won’t be as effective and time-saving. KLG will connect you with the software your distribution and fulfillment center needs for streamlined operations.

Contact Kuecker Logistics Group Today for Warehouse Automation Solutions

If you're ready for your operations to run more efficiently, contact us today. KLG is happy to provide you with more information about our comprehensive warehouse automation technology.
Call (816) 348-3100 to discuss your warehouse automation options with our expert team. Talk to Jim tell him Joe sent you!

Wednesday, December 6, 2017

Third Party Logistics & Warehouse Management Solutions

Third Party Logistics & Warehouse Management Solutions

Third party logistics - It's just one piece of the logistics, distribution, and supply management industry. This is when a company uses a third party business to outsource some or all of the distribution and fulfillment of their own products and is sometimes abbreviated as 3PL or TPL. Kuecker helps small and large businesses alike achieve efficient, dynamic logistics management solutions.
 As a company in the distribution and supply chain business, we know the difficulty in predicting what type of material handling solution your operation may need now and how your current operation can grow in that direction. You want a solution that works for their current client base, but possesses the flexibility to serve future customers.
When you need an expert with understanding and vision of how you can meet the ever-evolving needs of your clients,  let Kuecker Logistics Group fulfill that role.

Third Party Logistics Management Solutions

Kuecker Logistics Group represents and implements a wide variety of third-party logistics management products and solutions. We are an integrator, taking the best products and solutions from our diverse pool of sources and resources, and integrating them together in a custom designed solution for your company's unique needs. We can help identify the solution that makes your operation more efficient and flexible, leaving you free to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow.

Advantages of Using Kuecker for Your 3PL Needs

1. Saving Time & Money

KLG is an experienced material handling integrator. When you use us as a 3PL to manage your distribution and supply chain demands, you get the benefit of our vast experience and ability to pull together numerous efficiencies. This translates into cost and time savings for you. We are experts in logistic solutions, warehouse management, and much more.
Our third party logistics management solutions result in a lower capital commitment when engaging a 3PL. And because of our ready adaptability, you can more quickly and cost-effectively adjust to meet customer and supplier needs on an ongoing basis.

2. Allowing You to Focus

Let us do what we do best -- logistics management, material handling, warehouse automation, and more -- while you do what you do best.

3. Flexible Logistic Solutions

Our experience and expertise in designing and building solutions for every type of business operation gives us an advantage and a range of flexibility that you cannot match with in-house direct handling of your company's logistics challenges. We specialize in an array of third party logistics services that you may not be able to offer in-house.

A Trusted Provider of Third Party Logistic Solutions

We are knowledgeable in providing warehouse logistics, material handling and management solutions to third party logistics companies, including the organizations listed below.

Tuesday, December 5, 2017

Warehouse information


Automation and the Warehouse Enviroment

Some warehouses are completely automated, and require only operators to work and handle all the tasks. Pallets and product move on a system of automated conveyorscranes and automated storage and retrieval systems coordinated by programmable logic controllers and computers running logistics automation software. These systems are often installed in refrigerated warehouses where temperatures are kept very cold to keep the product from spoiling, especially in electronics warehouses that require specific temperatures to avoid damaging parts, and also where land is expensive, as automated storage systems can use vertical space efficiently. These high-bay storage areas are often more than 10 meters (33 feet) high, with some over 20 meters (65 feet) high. Automated storage systems can be built up to 40m high.
For a warehouse to function efficiently, the facility must be properly slotted. Slotting addresses which storage medium a product is picked from (pallet rack or carton flow), and how they are picked (pick-to-light, pick-to-voice, or pick-to-paper). With a proper slotting plan, a warehouse can improve its inventory rotation requirements—such as first in, first out (FIFO) and last in, first out (LIFO)—to control labor costs and increase productivity.[19]
Pallet racks are commonly used to organize a warehouse. It is important to know the dimensions of racking and the number of bays needed as well as the dimensions of the product to be stored.[Clearance should be accounted for if using a forklift or pallet mover to move inventory.
Warehouses have changed accordingly as the economy and the internet shopping has thrived around the world increasing the demand for quick delivery of products. Amazon has changed warehousing and automated warehousing and the expection of same-day delivery. We are seeing older warehouses in inner cities standing abandoned for being too small for retrofitting by companies to compete and deliver goods quickly. All Of these warehouses have similar problems: how do you staff, and quickly train,  a warehouse worker? This is where automation comes in and it is this automation that is now critical for companies to compete. Automated picking systems, automated robots, racking systems and more are now becoming the norm as demands for quick shipping increase. With companies experimenting with drone pickup and delivery, we may soon see drone landing ports on top of warehouses or next to warehouses with operators all over the world flying or controlling these drones.
Where does it leave us in today's environment? I believe that you must have your warehouse designed  by a professional company, and that company then needs to be able to implement or suggest a solution to guide your company into this new and exciting age. Kuecker Logistics Group has the experience and the knowledge to guide you and implement the new products and services that will lead you to success and to profits.
Written by Joe Rossini 
Some information provided by 
Wikipedia

Wednesday, November 29, 2017

Cyber Monday and what it means to distribution facilities



Did you know that this years black friday and cyber monday sales were all time highs and it is only going higher and higher. With the increases, retailers and on line retailers have seen tremendous increases to their distribution facilities and their abilities to fulfill orders. Kuecker Logistics Group is a leader in warehouse automation and in helping companies expand. Give Jim a call to see what Kuecker can do for you. Visit Kuecker at www.kuecker Logistics.com or call Jim at (816) 348-3100.
Did you know that this years black friday and cyber monday sales were all time highs and it is only going higher andDid you know that this years black friday and cyber monday sales were all time highs and it is only going higher and higher. With the increases, retailers and on line retailers have seen tremendous increases to their distribution facilities and their abilities to fulfill orders. Kuecker Logistics Group is a leader in warehouse automation and in helping companies expand. Give Jim a call to see what Kuecker can do for you. Visit Kuecker at www.kuecker Logistics.com or call Jim at (816) 348-3100.. With the increases, retailers and on line retailers have seen tremendous increases to their distribution facilities and their abilities to fulfill orders. Kuecker Logistics Group is a leader in warehouse automation and in helping companies expand. Give Jim a call to see what Kuecker can do for you. Visit Kuecker at www.kuecker Logistics.com or call Jim at (816) 348-3100.

Thursday, November 2, 2017

Robots in the factory

Will robots replace us? Here is a bit about that:

Artificial Intelligence in Material Handling

Research into AI is well funded and progressing quickly in the material handling arena.  As reported by the NY Times, researchers in Berkley, for instance, are working on robots that can look inside a bin full of randomly sized objects, quickly understand the size and shape of each discrete item, and then successfully grab one and place it in a desired location.  This type of behavior has always been outside the capability of robots, requiring companies to hire human “pickers” to perform it.  Other areas of research include self-navigating autonomous industrial vehicles (e.g. AGVs and fork trucks), using AI to optimize material flow in a facility, predictive maintenance for material handling components, and many more.
There are also many AI applications that have already moved from research to employment in facilities around the world.  Self-navigating industrial vehicles, although still an area of research, are already in many warehouses (continued research will serve to increase their capabilities).  Omron’s mobile robot, Adept, for instance, will automatically drive to desired locations once it has mapped a facility.  With the ability to grab objects of different shapes, there are even some robotic grippers that are already employing a portion of the technology being researched by the Berkley group.  Clearly, then, AI has had a substantial effect on material handling automation, and with continued research, it will continue to shape it.  Does this mean we can expect a future where distribution centers and manufacturing facilities are totally automated, i.e. without any human workers?  Perhaps, but probably not.
To date, AI has increased the capabilities of material handling automation, and automation, in turn, has made workers more productive and valuable.  Thus, in my experience, after automating a process, companies do not eliminate workers.  Rather, those workers become much more productive or are moved into a different process that provides more value.  For example, a goods-to-person system such as AutoStore will drastically increase the number of items a human picker can pick, so the human is not replaced, but is now much more productive.  Eventually, I do think that researchers like those at Berkley will create systems that replace the human picker in this process, but that person will not go away.  Machines are not perfect, and humans will need to supervise them and correct them when they make mistakes.  The picker, therefore, will become a supervisor of intelligent machines, taking immediate corrective action when the machines make mistakes in order to keep production moving.

Thursday, October 5, 2017

Factory automation

Automation[ or automatic control, is the use of various control systems for operating equipment such as machinery, processes in factories, boilers and heat treating ovens, switching on telephone networks, steering and stabilization of ships, aircraft and other applications and vehicles with minimal or reduced human intervention. Some processes have been completely automated.
Automation has been achieved by various means including mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, electronic devices and computers, usually in combination. Complicated systems, such as modern factories, airplanes and ships typically use all these combined techniques. The biggest benefit of automation is that it saves labor; however, it is also used to save energy and materials and to improve quality, accuracy and precision.
The term automation, inspired by the earlier word automatic (coming from automaton), was not widely used before 1947, when Ford established an automation department.feedback controllers, which were introduced in the 1930s.
 It was during this time that industry was rapidly adopting

Kuecker Logistics Group prides itself on helping companies use automation to increase speeds and profits.

Over the last 30 years, Kuecker Logistics Group has developed a reputation for providing innovative system solutions and great service to the industry. Our team of recognized professionals can provide you the very best in material handling products, cutting edge design and impeccable implementation and support.

Online Fulfillment Center OFC "Fast Track" - System Solutions


Our market presence as an integrator allows us to provide you best of breed products and system solutions at the right price for all facets of your project.

Online Fulfillment Solutions On Time & Within Budget

  • Conveyor & Sortation Systems 
    We work with the best brands in the industry and provide you with the perfect solution for your unique requirements. Our job is finding the right sortation and conveyor systems solutions for you.
  • Storage Media
    We understand the benefits of different types of storage solutions for different applications. We also understand the competitive nature of this industry. We can provide with you the best products at a competitive price.
  • Software - WCS
    Our well-staffed team of design experts, engineering professionals and problem solvers will work closely with your company in order to develop a customized solution that is guaranteed to optimize the many unique aspects of your warehouse and distribution process.
Import Facilities 3PL Provider
2014 Panama Canal Opening is Rapidly Approaching. With double the capacity and capable of handling Post-Panamax Ships).
Kuecker Logistics Group is part of a strategic alliance of partners who can rapidly provide enhanced results in a compressed time frame while cutting cost and effort. Designers, Architects, Engineers, Builders, MHE Integrators / Consultants, WMS/WCS Software, Controls, Electrical Constructors, and 3PL Operators all working in unison to get your facility rapidly and correctly deployed.
If you are looking for the best online fulfillment solution to meet the unique requirements of your company, contact Kuecker Logistics Group today at (816) 348-3100.

The 360 degree difference!

 The difference of a 360° degree supply chain view by Kuecker.com (Belton) hide this posting

Kuecker Logistics Group offers an intelligent solution for supply chain execution: KeyChain 360°. While other integrators will initiate the RFP process and move forward from there, we know that effective supply chain solutions execution requires a holistic approach. With the recent addition of key staff members who were former clients, our team now combines the industry experience we've gained as customers with expertise honed as material handling system integrators and developed a customized strategy that combines skilled engineering services and successful supply chain execution. Since we have experienced both sides of the business, we offer a unique and effective process that separates us from industry peers.

The result? End-to-end solutions tailored to meet your business' ever-changing demands. With KeyChain 360°, you can differentiate your Supply Chain to cultivate growth, on-going improvement, and new business opportunities with flexible and scalable solutions. Call Jim at Kuecker Logistics Group.

Tuesday, October 3, 2017

The conveyor system

I did not write this but it is a nice history of the conveyor system. Kuecker Logistics sells and installs conveyor systems call Jim if you would like to learn more:

In 1913, Henry Ford revolutionized the world of mass production with his conveyor belt assembly line. It’s been 100 years now and the conveyor belt is more a part of our industrial landscape than ever. In fact, we’re now using conveyors in ways Ford never imagined.

The Beginnings of the Conveyor Belt

Ford wasn’t the first to use conveyor belts for industry. In the late 18th Century, primitive conveyors with canvas or leather belts were being used in mines and rail yards to handle bulk materials over short distances. But it was Ford’s assembly line process that changed mass production forever. Along with interchangeable parts, this process greatly sped up the assembly of individual units, making it possible for Ford to produce cars faster and more cheaply than had ever been done before.
This process has been replicated in every mass production facility in the world. And though technology has improved, the basic principles of the assembly line that Ford implemented in 1913 haven’t changed.

Modern Day Assembly Lines

Today’s assembly line still consists of a conveyor and stations where specific tasks are completed. But modern technology has improved speed and precision beyond anything Ford dreamed of.
Today’s world markets for cars and other manufactured goods are more demanding than ever before, and this requires assembly lines to be more efficient than ever. Now-a-days, specialized machines do much of the work along assembly lines depending on the products being manufactured. Computerization and laser guidance systems have made many of these robotic workers faster, cheaper, smaller, and more precise than human counterparts. Of course we haven’t figured out how to do build robots for every task, and people are still essential for fabrication, quality assurance, and sorting along many assembly lines.
The efficiency of a manufacturing process requires a great deal of logistical coordination and adaptability. Components for building an average automobile might originate in factories all over the world. Many of these factories have become so versatile that they can completely retool from manufacturing one product to the next one in a matter of weeks. As many aspects of production change, conveyor belts are ubiquitous in mass production processes.

A Highly Adaptable Machine

A conveyor belt is a simple, but incredibly versatile machine. New innovations have made this tool highly adaptable for a wide variety of tasks. For this reason, conveyors are widely used in agriculture, mining, manufacturing, recycling, pharmaceutical, food processing, and many other industries.
Moving bulk materials for commercial use is a job conveyors have done for hundreds of years, but not like today. Modern conveyor belts are made from homogeneously molded rubber compounds that last three to five times longer than traditional laminated rubber belts. The various rubber compounds used can make the belts oil, heat, or flame resistant or increase conductivity for vastly different manufacturing conditions. Flexible sidewalls and innovative cleat designs have greatly increased the load capacity of belts even along steep inclines.
Modern conveyors designed for sorting packaged goods are capable of sensing the positions of objects and rotating and aligning them for processing and shipping. Some belts can electronically identify objects and divert individual packages to different destinations without human oversight.

Coming Full Circle

100 years after Ford perfected his assembly line, conveyor belts are essential parts of mass manufacturing throughout the world. The simple design is versatile enough to adapt to an incredibly wide range of tasks. As new technologies come and innovations improve efficiency even more, it’s likely that these machines will continue to be valuable tools in industry. This is because, barring a Star Trek style dematerializing transporter, it’s difficult to conceive a more efficient way to move material and products along the production line than a conveyor belt

Thursday, September 28, 2017

Retail Distribution Centers – Material Handling and Order Fulfilment Solutions

Retail Distribution Centers – Material Handling and Order Fulfilment Solutions

There are many options out there to improve retail distribution center efficiencies; we can help you determine the best option for your material handling design. As logistics experts seasoned in fulfillment center consulting, we are the ideal partner for enhancing your retail distribution center operations. We are a company with the right answers, the right team and the right products for distribution logistics solutions. We take pride in providing innovative fulfillment center solutions customized for your business.

Selecting Warehouse Automation and Material Handling Equipment for Retail Distribution

Your customers expect the products they order when they order them. They don't care if the automation at your retail distribution centers shuts down and you can't get product out the door. Your retail customers have customers of their own to service, so your warehouse management and logistics must be in tip-top shape. Kuecker Logistics Group has served some of the highest-volume fulfillment centers in the industry. You can find a list of the fulfillment centers we've served below.
Please visit the following case study for an in-depth study of an installed Retail Distribution Centers system. Click here .....
Kuecker Logistics Group Retail Customers
For more information on how we can help improve retail inventory management, warehouse management, & distribution logistics at your retail distribution or fulfillment centers, contact Kuecker Logistics Group at (816) 348-3100.

Wednesday, September 27, 2017

Third Party Logistics Management Solutions

Third Party Logistics Management Solutions

Kuecker Logistics Group represents and implements a wide variety of third-party logistics management products and solutions. We are an integrator, taking the best products and solutions from our diverse pool of sources and resources, and integrating them together in a custom designed solution for your company's unique needs. We can help identify the solution that makes your operation more efficient and flexible, leaving you free to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow.

Advantages of Using Kuecker for Your 3PL Needs

1. Saving Time & Money

KLG is an experienced material handling integrator. When you use us as a 3PL to manage your distribution and supply chain demands, you get the benefit of our vast experience and ability to pull together numerous efficiencies. This translates into cost and time savings for you. We are experts in logistic solutions, warehouse management, and much more.
Engaging a 3PL results in a lower capital commitment when engaging a 3PL. And because of our ready adaptability, you can more quickly and cost-effectively adjust to meet customer and supplier needs on an ongoing basis.

2. Allowing You to Focus

Let us do what we do best -- logistics management, material handling, warehouse automation, and more -- while you do what you do best.

3. Flexible Logistic Solutions

Our experience and expertise in designing and building solutions for every type of business operation gives us an advantage and a range of flexibility that you cannot match with in-house direct handling of your company's logistics challenges. We specialize in an array of third party logistics services that you may not be able to offer in-house.

A Trusted Provider of Third Party Logistic Solutions

We are knowledgeable in providing warehouse logistics, material handling and management solutions to third party logistics companies, including the organizations listed below.
Third Party Logistics Vendors

For more information on our third party logistics and warehouse management solutions, contact us today at (816) 348-3100.


Wednesday, September 13, 2017

What is supply chain management?

What is supply chain management? n commerce, supply chain management (SCM), the management of the flow of goods and services,[2] involves the movement and storage of raw materials, of work-in-process inventory, and of finished goods from point of origin to point of consumption. Interconnected or interlinked networks, channels and node businesses combine in the provision of products and services required by end customers in a supply chain. Supply-chain management has been defined as the "design, planning, execution, control, and monitoring of supply chain activities with the objective of creating net value, building a competitive infrastructure, leveraging worldwide logistics, synchronizing supply with demand and measuring performance globally."
SCM practice draws heavily from the areas of industrial engineering, systems engineering, operations management, logistics, procurement, information technology, and marketing and strives for an integrated approach.[citation needed] Marketing channels play an important role in supply chain management] Current research in supply chain management is concerned with topics related to sustainability and risk management, among others, whereas the “people dimension” of SCM, ethical issues, internal integration, transparency/visibility, and human capital/talent management are topics that have, so far, been underrepresented on the research agenda. Kuecker Logistics Group is a leader in this field, call Jim Kuecker. Visit our web site at www.kuecker.com for more information about us.

Jim

Thursday, September 7, 2017

What is AS/RS?

An automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS or AS/RS) consists of a variety of computer-controlled systems for automatically placing and retrieving loads from defined storage locations.[1] Automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) are typically used in applications where:
  • There is a very high volume of loads being moved into and out of storage
  • Storage density is important because of space constraints
  • No value is added in this process (no processing, only storage and transport)
  • Accuracy is critical because of potential expensive damages to the load

At Kuecker Logistics Group we offer:

Automated Storage & Retrieval

  • Unit Load Stacker Cranes
  • Mini Load Cranes
  • Vertical Lift Sequencer (VLS)
  • Carousels with Inserter Extractors
  • Shuttle Systems
  • Goods to man systems
  • Opex Perfect Pick
If you are looking for the perfect customized automated storage and retrieval solution to meet your unique needs, contact Kuecker Logistics Group today at (816) 348-3100.


Monday, August 14, 2017

Benefits of warehouse control software and services

How Warehouse Management Software Will Benefit You

If you’re involved in product distribution, you already know that complex warehouse operations must adapt quickly and easily to change. Your company is constantly innovating—and as your business model rapidly changes, the expectations for your warehouses change, too.
Whether your customers are conserving operating cash in a constrained credit market, or your business decides to ship products with the longest remaining shelf-life to the best customers, you need warehouse management software that will quickly respond. What’s more, you’re probably learning that your warehouse systems are increasingly expected to perform more and more functions including assembly, manufacturing, and repair. These capabilities are part of extended value chain processes that include transportation management, procurement, manufacturing, order management, spare parts and repair operations, asset management, and maintenance.

What to Look for in Warehouse Management Software

A complete solution for managing warehouse operations is one that can maintain a single warehouse or provide a central point of control that spans across multiple, varying facilities. Warehouse management software should leverage the operational benefits of today’s service-oriented architecture (SOA), benefits from strong integration capabilities, and should easily integrate with your existing infrastructure and material handling equipment, as well as support new technologies like radio frequency identification (RFID).
Ideally, the goal is to bring operational discipline to complex warehouse operations by providing a planning layer, a real-time execution layer, and an operational monitoring tool to ensure optimal utilization of resources. When selecting the right warehouse management software, you should consider both leading WMS solutions with superior abilities to support a dynamic market environment with a multitude of warehouse flows, as well as a range of integrated extensions that makes the warehouse operation a multi-functioning and transparent bridge in the supply chain.
The payoff that comes from making the right warehouse management software choice is huge. Customers using the most advanced warehouse management software experienced increased utilization of warehouse space, reduction of obsolete products, improved delivery reliability, and increased warehouse turns. While choosing warehouse management software that’s right for your operations depends on your unique requirements, there are some desired features that should be high on your must-have list.

At Kuecker Logistics Group we offer KEY CHAIN WCS software and services call us today at (816) 348-3100 and ask for Jim to found out more.

Thursday, July 20, 2017

Robots in factories!

Break things down to the original Latin and manufacturing is literally a matter of using your hands (manu) to make things (factura). Robots are a different story. The term comes to us from the Czech word robotnik, which means nothing short of slave labor. Don't let science fiction and Japanese cuteness confuse you: Humans created robots to do their drudge work.
Factories first opened their doors to modern industrial robots in 1961. That's when Unimate joined the General Motors workforce. Unimatewas essentially a 4,000-pound (1,814-kilogram) arm attached to a giant steel drum. The Unimate robots boasted remarkable versatility for the time and could easily pour liquid metal into die casts, weld auto bodies together and manipulate 500-pound (227-kilogram) payloads.
What does it mean to productivity? What does it mean to the human work force? There are many potential answers to the above questions:
Robots, Unimatly could perform tasks that humans often found dangerous or boring, and it could do them with consistent speed and precision. It never called in sick, went on strike or violated company rules. It covered all three shifts in a 24-hour period without drawing a single minute of overtime. Needless to say, factory owners grew to like this no-nonsense new addition.
Robot factory workers aren't without their limitations, however. In their simplest forms, industrial robots are mere automatons. Humans program them to perform a simple task, and they repeat that task over and over again. Tasks that require decision-making, creativity, adaptation and on-the-job learning tend to go to the humans.
But when a job's just right for a robot, productivity tends to increase dramatically. For instance, Australia's Drake Trailers installed a single welding robot on its production line and benefited from a reported a 60% increase in productivity! productivity [source: ABB Australia].
We at Kuecker Logistics work with our clients to quote the best overall solution to a warehouse problem. Call us today and let us tell you what we can offer you!

Wednesday, July 5, 2017

What is automation in a factory?

Automation[1] or automatic control, is the use of various control systems for operating equipment such as machinery, processes in factories, boilers and heat treating ovens, switching on telephone networks, steering and stabilization of ships, aircraft and other applications and vehicles with minimal or reduced human intervention. Some processes have been completely automated.
Automation has been achieved by various means including mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, electronic devices and computers, usually in combination. Complicated systems, such as modern factories, airplanes and ships typically use all these combined techniques. The biggest benefit of automation is that it saves labor; however, it is also used to save energy and materials and to improve quality, accuracy and precision.
The term automation, inspired by the earlier word automatic (coming from automaton), was not widely used before 1947, when Ford established an automation department.[1] It was during this time that industry was rapidly adopting feedback controllers, which were introduced in the 1930s.

Kuecker Logistics Group prides itself on helping companies use automation to increase speeds and profits.

Over the last 30 years, Kuecker Logistics Group has developed a reputation for providing innovative system solutions and great service to the industry. Our team of recognized professionals can provide you the very best in material handling products, cutting edge design and impeccable implementation and support.

Online Fulfillment Center OFC "Fast Track" - System Solutions


Our market presence as an integrator allows us to provide you best of breed products and system solutions at the right price for all facets of your project.

Online Fulfillment Solutions On Time & Within Budget

  • Conveyor & Sortation Systems 
    We work with the best brands in the industry and provide you with the perfect solution for your unique requirements. Our job is finding the right sortation and conveyor systems solutions for you.
  • Storage Media
    We understand the benefits of different types of storage solutions for different applications. We also understand the competitive nature of this industry. We can provide with you the best products at a competitive price.
  • Software - WCS
    Our well-staffed team of design experts, engineering professionals and problem solvers will work closely with your company in order to develop a customized solution that is guaranteed to optimize the many unique aspects of your warehouse and distribution process.
Import Facilities 3PL Provider
2014 Panama Canal Opening is Rapidly Approaching. With double the capacity and capable of handling Post-Panamax Ships).
Kuecker Logistics Group is part of a strategic alliance of partners who can rapidly provide enhanced results in a compressed time frame while cutting cost and effort. Designers, Architects, Engineers, Builders, MHE Integrators / Consultants, WMS/WCS Software, Controls, Electrical Constructors, and 3PL Operators all working in unison to get your facility rapidly and correctly deployed.
If you are looking for the best online fulfillment solution to meet the unique requirements of your company, contact Kuecker Logistics Group today at (816) 348-3100.

Monday, June 5, 2017

The benefits of AS/RS

AS/RS systems are designed for automated storage and retrieval of parts and items in manufacturing, distribution, retail, wholesale and institutions.[3] They first originated in the 1960s, initially focusing on heavy pallet loads but with the evolution of the technology the handled loads have become smaller.[4] The systems operate under computerized control, maintaining an inventory of stored items. Retrieval of items is accomplished by specifying the item type and quantity to be retrieved. The computer determines where in the storage area the item can be retrieved from and schedules the retrieval. It directs the proper automated storage and retrieval machine (SRM) to the location where the item is stored and directs the machine to deposit the item at a location where it is to be picked up. A system of conveyors and or automated guided vehicles is sometimes part of the AS/RS system. These take loads into and out of the storage area and move them to the manufacturing floor or loading docks. To store items, the pallet or tray is placed at an input station for the system, the information for inventory is entered into a computer terminal and the AS/RS system moves the load to the storage area, determines a suitable location for the item, and stores the load. As items are stored into or retrieved from the racks, the computer updates its inventory accordingly.

The benefits of an AS/RS system include reduced labor for transporting items into and out of inventory, reduced inventory levels, more accurate tracking of inventory, and space savings. Items are often stored more densely than in systems where items are stored and retrieved manually.[5]
Within the storage, items can be placed on trays or hang from bars, which are attached to chains/drives in order to move up and down. The equipment required for an AS/RS include a storage & retrieval machine (SRM) that is used for rapid storage and retrieval of material. SRMs are used to move loads vertically or horizontally, and can also move laterally to place objects in the correct storage location.[6]
The trend towards Just In Time production often requires sub-pallet level availability of production inputs, and AS/RS is a much faster way of organizing the storage of smaller items next to production lines.

Kuecker Logistics offers AS/RS benefits. Please visit our web page at http://kuecker.com/beverage_solutions.php to learn more about what we offer or call Jim Kuecker at (816) 348-3100 to talk to an AS/RS expert.